'Given the significant changes introduced by the 2025 tax law, ExxonMobil employees should proactively reassess their financial and estate planning strategies with qualified advisors to adapt effectively to both permanent shifts and temporary opportunities,' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'With major tax changes now permanent and new temporary provisions introduced, ExxonMobil employees should revisit their retirement and estate planning to optimize financial opportunities in this evolving landscape,' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article we will discuss:
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Permanent tax code changes affecting income, deductions, and estate planning.
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Temporary tax benefits available from 2025 through 2028.
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New savings and health care provisions available to families and retirees.
A New Tax Landscape for ExxonMobil Employees
On July 4, 2025, President Trump signed a landmark bill into law that made most of the individual and corporate tax cuts from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanent. For ExxonMobil employees, this legislation could bring long-term effects on income, deductions, and retirement planning. The law also introduces several new tax provisions intended to ease burdens for seniors, families with young children, and those living in high-tax states. While these changes stop the automatic tax increases once slated for December 31, 2025, some provisions will expire after a few years—potentially prompting more political and financial revisions.
Background and Legal Hurdles
Getting the bill passed was complex. Lawmakers balanced the cost of extending the TCJA’s tax breaks by cutting Medicaid spending, reducing some clean energy credits from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, and eliminating personal exemptions. Analysts urge American households to consider how these trade-offs might affect long-term economic growth. Some components may offer modest tax relief for both consumers and businesses, possibly influencing economic momentum.
Core Permanent Provisions
1. Seven Tax Brackets
The structure of seven tax brackets—ranging from 10% to 37%—remains in place. 1 Adjustments for inflation apply in select cases. ExxonMobil professionals should assess their current income tier to understand its effect on overall tax liability.
2. Mortgage Interest Deduction
Interest on up to $750,000 of acquisition mortgage debt ($375,000 if married filing separately) remains deductible. For ExxonMobil homeowners, this provision may provide continued tax relief depending on loan size and income.
3. SALT Deduction Cap
The $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions will temporarily increase to $40,000 before reverting in 2030. 1 High-income ExxonMobil earners in states with steep taxes may benefit from this short-term expansion.
4. Standard Deduction
Now permanent, the standard deduction is $15,750 for single filers and $31,500 for joint filers. 1 These amounts will be adjusted for inflation starting in 2026—making it important for ExxonMobil employees to monitor annual changes.
5. Estate and Gift Tax Exclusion
The estate and gift tax exemption has increased to $15 million per individual and $30 million per couple. 1 This is especially relevant for ExxonMobil executives with large estates or wealth transfer goals.
6. Charitable Giving Incentives
Above-the-line deductions of $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for joint filers are reinstated, along with expanded adjusted gross income (AGI) limits for cash donations. ExxonMobil retirees who prioritize charitable giving may find new planning opportunities here.
7. Repeal of Personal Exemption
The $4,050 per filer personal exemption has been permanently eliminated. 1 Taxpayers continue to rely on enhanced Child Tax Credits and the standard deduction instead.
Temporary Enhancements (2025–2028)
Tax-Free Tips and Overtime
Workers earning under $300,000 (joint) or $150,000 (single) can deduct up to $25,000 in tips and $12,500 in overtime pay. This change may be relevant for ExxonMobil employees in field service or operations roles.
Senior Deduction Boost
An additional $6,000 deduction is now available for individuals over 65, phasing out at incomes of $75,000 (single) and $150,000 (joint). 2 This could affect many long-tenured ExxonMobil employees planning for retirement.
Auto Loan Interest Deduction
Interest on loans for U.S.-assembled vehicles (up to $10,000) is deductible for individuals earning under $100,000 (single) or $200,000 (joint). ExxonMobil families may consider how this could influence their vehicle purchasing plans.
Savings and Health Advances
“Trump Accounts” for Minors
Parents can contribute up to $5,000 annually to a child’s account that later converts to an IRA at age 18. ExxonMobil families with long-term savings goals may consider this strategy.
Expanded Health Savings Account (HSA) Access
Telehealth services are now permanently included, and reimbursements up to $150/month ($300 for families) for direct primary care are allowed. This offers greater flexibility for ExxonMobil workers with high-deductible health plans.
Flexible 529 Plans
Withdrawals from 529 plans now include costs for educational therapy, private tutoring, and testing fees. This expansion may benefit ExxonMobil parents supporting children with specialized learning needs.
Notably Excluded
Despite earlier debate, the new law does not repeal taxation of Social Security benefits. Individuals earning above $34,000 (single) or $44,000 (joint) will continue to have up to 85% of their benefits taxed. The temporary senior deduction, however, may reduce total liability for some.
Looking Ahead
The new law solidifies many tax policies and adds time-sensitive benefits designed for families, seniors, and individuals building long-term plans. ExxonMobil employees may wish to speak with a financial advisor to evaluate how changes intersect with their compensation, equity, and estate considerations. Critical components like the SALT cap window, AGI phase-outs, and inflation-linked thresholds should be revisited each year to capture new opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Think of the 2025 tax act like a home renovation. Some features—like tax-free overtime and enhanced deductions—are temporary extensions that won’t last forever. Others—such as expanded credits and deductions—strengthen the core of the tax code. For ExxonMobil professionals and retirees, now may be the right time to reassess your financial approach and align with the latest legislative updates.
AMT Update
The Alternative Minimum Tax exemption has been set at $88,100 for single filers and $137,000 for joint filers in 2025, and it will be adjusted for inflation starting in 2026. 1 This provision helps reduce the likelihood that higher earners will fall under AMT obligations due solely to inflation.
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Sources:
1. U.S. Bank Wealth Management Team. ' New Tax Laws 2025: Tax Brackets and Deductions .' U.S. Bank, 15 Feb. 2025. Accessed 12 July 2025.
2. Tax Foundation. ' No Tax on Social Security vs. $4,000 'Senior Bonus' Tax Deduction .' Tax Foundation, 5 July 2025. Accessed 12 July 2025.
Other Resources:
1. AARP. ' What to Know About the New Tax Deduction for Older Adults .' AARP Editorial Staff, 7 July 2025. Accessed 12 July 2025.
2. Bankrate. ' There's a New Tax Break Worth $6,000 for Older Taxpayers ,' by Andrea Coombes, 11 July 2025. Accessed 12 July 2025.
3. Barron’s. ' Retirees, Here's How to Take Advantage of New Tax Breaks .' Barron's Tax Editorial Team, 9 July 2025. Accessed 12 July 2025.
How does the ExxonMobil Savings Plan compare against typical retirement savings plans, and what unique features does it offer that can benefit employees approaching retirement? Additionally, can you elaborate on the necessary steps ExxonMobil employees should take within the savings plan to ensure maximum contributions and employer match during their service years?
ExxonMobil Savings Plan: ExxonMobil's Savings Plan offers flexibility with pre-tax, after-tax, and Roth contributions, and features a 7% company match for the first 6% of employee contributions, a unique benefit compared to typical plans. Employees should contribute the maximum percentage to receive the full match and regularly review their investment allocations through the Voya platform(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
What are the eligibility criteria for employees to participate in the ExxonMobil Pension Plan, and how is the retirement benefit calculated? As employees consider their long-term savings strategy, how does the option of a lump-sum distribution versus an annuity influence their financial planning at ExxonMobil?
ExxonMobil Pension Plan: Employees are automatically enrolled and eligible for benefits after five years of service, with full retirement benefits offered at 55 with 15 years of service. The pension is calculated based on 1.6% of final average pay multiplied by years of service, minus a social security offset. Lump-sum and annuity options affect long-term financial planning, with lump sums offering immediate flexibility while annuities provide a steady income(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
In what ways does the ExxonMobil Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support employees during personal or family crises, and what confidentiality measures are in place to protect their privacy? Additionally, how can ExxonMobil employees access these services, and what are the key resources available through this program?
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): ExxonMobil's EAP provides confidential counseling services for personal and family issues like anxiety, addiction, and family conflict. Services are accessible by phone, video chat, or text, with privacy strictly protected. Employees can contact ComPsych for guidance and support through the GuidanceNow app or website(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
With the introduction of Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) at ExxonMobil, how do these accounts help employees manage their health care and dependent care expenses more effectively? What guidelines should employees follow to ensure they maximize their tax advantages while complying with IRS regulations during the enrollment process?
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): FSAs at ExxonMobil allow employees to reduce taxable income by contributing pre-tax dollars to healthcare or dependent care expenses. Employees should estimate their expenses carefully during the enrollment period and comply with IRS rules, ensuring they submit claims by April 15th of the following year(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
How does ExxonMobil define "work-life balance," and what specific benefits and programs are in place to support this philosophy for employees? Can you discuss how employees can utilize these options, such as flexible schedules and leave of absence policies, without negatively impacting their career progression within the company?
Work-Life Balance: ExxonMobil promotes work-life balance with programs like “Flex Your Day,” allowing flexibility in work hours, and up to 20 days of back-up dependent care. Employees are encouraged to use these options strategically to maintain career progression while balancing personal obligations(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
In light of the various medical plan options offered at ExxonMobil, how should employees approach selecting the right plan to best meet their healthcare needs? What factors should they consider, including family health history and financial implications, when making their decisions?
Medical Plan Selection: ExxonMobil offers Aetna POS II and network-only options, allowing employees to choose between plans based on cost, coverage, and provider access. Employees should assess their family's healthcare needs, financial situation, and preferred providers when selecting the most appropriate plan(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
For ExxonMobil employees nearing retirement, what resources are available to help them understand the nuances of health benefits coordination through Medicare and their ExxonMobil coverage? How can they best navigate this transition, and what checkpoints should they be aware of to ensure they remain compliant with company policies during retirement?
Retirement Health Benefits and Medicare: ExxonMobil offers resources to help employees coordinate health benefits with Medicare upon retirement. Employees nearing retirement should explore their options through the Your Total Rewards portal and ensure compliance with company policies during the transition(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
What financial education resources does ExxonMobil provide to employees to promote informed decision-making about their retirement savings and benefits? Can you detail how programs like the Financial Fitness Program enable employees to strategically manage their finances and plan for retirement?
Financial Education Resources: ExxonMobil's Financial Fitness Program, provided in collaboration with Ernst & Young, helps employees manage their finances with resources such as EY Navigate and personalized financial planning. This program supports informed decision-making about retirement and savings strategies(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
As part of the benefits provided by ExxonMobil, how does the company facilitate employee participation in volunteer programs and charitable activities through the ExxonMobil Foundation? How can employees engage with these initiatives while also balancing their work commitments?
Volunteer Programs: Through the ExxonMobil Foundation, employees can engage in charitable activities via the Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP), which offers grants to nonprofits based on time spent volunteering. Participation in these programs is flexible, enabling employees to balance work commitments with volunteer efforts(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
How can ExxonMobil employees get in touch with benefits representatives to address specific questions about their retirement and savings plans? What are the recommended channels and best times to reach out for assistance to ensure they receive timely and relevant information about their options?
Contacting Benefits Representatives: Employees can reach out to the ExxonMobil Benefits Service Center at 833-776-9966 during business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST) for assistance with retirement and savings plan questions. The Your Total Rewards portal also offers 24/7 access for reviewing and managing benefits(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).